Famous mud run is filling up

CAMP PENDLETON  Camp Pendleton’s popular race through a muddy obstacle course is filling up fast. Living up to its name, the base’s “World Famous Mud Run” has drawn runners from across the globe, and is close to full on two of its five days from May 31 to June 8.

The 21st annual event is expected to bring more than 70,000 runners and spectators on base over two weekends of running and partying.

New this year is a 5k mud course along with the 10k run through several massive mud pits, tunnels and over walls and a slippery water-drenched hills.

Runners take off in waves starting at 8:30 a.m. from the Lake O’Neill Recreation area.

“There are more obstacles and more mud,” said Cari Gordonne of Marine Corps Community Service, who has worked at the race for 11 years.

Most of the runners are civilians, but several hundred Marines volunteer at the race. A military mud run for military members only is slated for June 6 as part of the Commanding General’s Cup.

Participants can race individually or as a five-person team.

A 1k Kids mud run for ages 6 to 12 starts at noon and mirrors the adult course with mini mud pits and obstacles.

Kids age 13 and over can participate in the adult run.

A Filthy Fun Fest, free for the spectators, features carnival amusement rides, bands, food, beer garden and family activities. Attractions include a zip line, mini-golf, Ferris wheel and superslide along with bounce houses.

Registration fees: $83-$93 until May 15; kid’s run $25 until May 15. Discounts for active duty military.

Proceeds support recreational programs for Camp Pendleton Marines and their families.